As we enter the height of new pond set ups and maintenance on older ponds, the subject of algae control via the use of a UV sterilizer/clarifier always comes up. The simple truth is that the proper application of a UV sterilizer can eliminate free floating, “green water” type algae.

Most of the US has suffered through a brutal and long winter (it is snowing outside my window today!), and, as soon as we got a few nice sunny days in the mid 50-60’s, everyone started to get spring fever. For those of us with ponds, we get the more specialized pond fever. You really have to be careful with pond fever, because if you start treating the symptoms too soon, the pond will only suffer. You have to wait until the fever has broken and the temperatures are staying in the 60’s to 70’s.

When Spring comes and it’s time to turn on all your pond equipment again, your pond has to go through a cycle before the water will be completely safe for your fish. This cycle is similar to the one that your pond went through when you first installed it.

Recently, we wrote of the scourge of the pond known as algae. One of our treatments in the forefront of the battle to control algae is the very popular AlgaeFix from Pondcare Labs. This product was produced to kill nuisance algae while still being safe for any fish, plants or wildlife that might come into contact with the product.

Despite the fact that it is a natural process, the growth of algae in the ornamental pond is something most pond keepers consider unacceptable. The majority of the algae fall into one of two types, free floating planktonic algae and filamentous algae. The only things either of these require to grow is sunlight, water and nutrition in the form of the fish wastes, nitrate, and phosphate. We can try to control the algae by providing competition in the form of ornamental plants for the available food source.

In an attempt to provide the best in nutrition for our Koi, the hobbyist has access to many different types of foods that meet specific requirements for the fish. Nearly all Koi foods are a floating pellet or stix to bring the fish to the surface and allow us better viewing during feeding. It also allows us to monitor how much food to feed, as excess pellets floating around the pond after a few minutes indicated we offered too much koi food.

With the rise in popularity of ponds and water gardens came the demand for simple methods of pond algae control to prevent scum algae and stringy algae from taking over the pond. There are several chemical methods of control, but one of the more popular methods of control involves using Barley straw as a natural preventative. Long used in Europe, the Barley bales have become much more prevalent in the pond keeping hobby.

Shubunkins, the Other Pond Fish

If you are looking for a flash of color and movement, the Shubunkin might be the best choice for your pond. This fish is a relatively new development in the world of pond keeping, first being raised in the early 1900’s.

Social Accounts

About Us

PetSolutions first started online in 1996 and was built on the same strong principles of value and customer service that we have believed in since beginning in the pet industry back in 1950.

Our business is based in Beavercreek, Ohio, where we operate from our 100,000+ square foot distribution center, fish holding facility and office areas. We are large enough to provide incredibly fast shipping and great prices, yet we are small enough to give a very personal touch to your shopping experience.